How to Hook a Sand Flea

The mole crab, or sand flea, of the Atlantic beaches is named for its habit of burrowing into the sand. They are eaten by most fish that live in the surf area, and though somewhat difficult to catch, they make great bait for fishermen. There is no best way to hook a sand flea, but using a method that pins the insect to the hook in two places makes the bait less likely to be lost in the water.

Things You'll Need

• Circle hook, size 0-2, or a kahle style hook, size 2-4

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Puncture the hard upper shell of the sand flea and run the hook through so that it pokes out the underside.

   • 2

     Turn the hook so that it curves toward the lower inside of the flea.

   • 3

     Stick the hook in so that the flap-like tail of the flea is pinned to its body. Make sure you have about 5 to 10 millimeters of hook coming out. You are now ready to use the sand flea as bait.